Tasamuh is pillar of Keluarga Malaysia concept - PM

KOTA BHARU: The concept of 'tasamuh' which emphasises the value of tolerance and togetherness is the pillar of the Keluarga Malaysia concept, which was introduced by the federal government a year ago, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the value of tolerance should be emphasised not only in social life but also in religion by respecting religious rights, thereby creating a peaceful and prosperous society.

"With tasamuh, Keluarga Malaysia will more appreciate the differences among people within the boundaries outlined by the Islamic religion.

"As the government, it is our responsibility to always nurture the spirit of unity and find common ground in diversity through the concept of Keluarga Malaysia and tasamuh," he said.

He said this when opening the Kelantan Keluarga Malaysia Aspirations Tour (AKM) at the Sultan Muhammad IV Stadium, here today. Kelantan AKM, themed 'Keluarga Malaysia Keluarga Digital' (Malaysian Family is Digital Family) is taking place over three days from yesterday.

Also present were Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa who is coordinator of Kelantan AKM, Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Ahmad Yakob, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali and state assemblymen.

Commenting further, Ismail Sabri said the idea of Keluarga Malaysia that he introduced on Aug 22, last year was not just a mere rhetoric or a slogan and the well-being and interests of the people continued to be maintained like taking care of a family.

He said the Keluarga Malaysia concept aimed at uniting the multi-racial and multi-religious community in one big family based on three main thrusts, namely inclusiveness, togetherness and gratitude.

"The concept and approach of Keluarga Malaysia is not something difficult to digest because it is actually based on the existing values that we have in a family. If there is a family member who is in trouble, the other members also feel it.

"Therefore, we are bringing this concept to the whole country so that the people can appreciate and understand the aspirations of Keluarga Malaysia more clearly," he said.

The people of Kelantan, especially those living in Kota Bharu, made their way to the Kelantan AKM, which enters its second day today, from early morning to participate in various programmes and activities such as career carnival, digital entrepreneurship, sales carnival and exhibitions.

People from all walks of life also filled the main hall of the launching ceremony as early as 8 am.

Although not all were able to enter the hall, everyone was excited to wait for the Prime Minister with their smartphones to take pictures of the country's leader.

-- BERNAMA